Reference is made to our previous circular no.PNI1814 on ECA issue in China, wherein we advised Shanghai and Zhejiang MSA require--ships when entering Shanghai port area to use low sulphur content fuel from 01.10.2018--vessels with destinations of Ningbo or Zhoushan will be required to use low sulphur fuel once they enter Yangtze River Delta ECA as from 01.10.2018.

On 27.08.2018, Jiangsu MSA issued a similar notice to require ships entering Suzhou and Nantong ECA area in Yangtze River Delta ECA to use low sulphur content fuel not exceeding 0.5%mm from 01.10.2018.

Inland ships and river-coastal ships are required to use diesel oil that meets relevant standard.

From 01.10.2018, ships shall give priority to use shore power, in case the ship and calling port has suitable condition.

From 29.10.2018 to 11.11.2018, ships with shore power connection capabilities shall use shore power when berthing at terminal which is equipped with shore power facilities in Suzhou, Wuxi, Nantong and Changzhou.

Ships can take alternative measures, such as using clean energy, exhaust gas cleaning system and etc. to satisfy the emission control requirement.

To summarize, as from 01.10.2018, ships are required to use low sulphur content fuel not exceeding 0.5%m/m--when entering Shanghai port area;--when entering Yangtze River Delta ECA if vessel’s destination is Ningbo or Zhoushan port;--when entering Suzhou and Nantong ECA area.

Therefore, owners are recommended to take appropriate measures before entering into above areas to meet relevant requirements and to avoid any delay or penalty to the ship. Furthermore, for the sake of good order, we also suggested owner to double check with local agent regarding local situation and requirement in advance.